Commonly recommended medical techniques are effective in targeting both the cause of shingles (the varicella-zoster virus, or VZV) as well as the symptoms and effects of the condition. However, because of the intense and sometimes difficult to treat nature of the pain associated with the condition, doctors may recommend a number of additional techniques to supplement or partially replace the standard treatment regimen for shingles.
Relaxation
According to the Mayo Clinic, relaxation techniques can help partially relieve (or make less noticeable) the pain of shingles. Among those techniques recommended are tai chi and listening to music, along with other techniques that may soothe a given individual. The Mayo Clinic also recommends distractions like movies and hobbies to help people ignore their pain; diversions, along with avoiding stressful activities, can help people with shingles as their bodies heal.
Relief
In addition to the use of painkillers and topical agents (capsaicin and lidocaine as recommended by a doctor), relief from shingles blisters might take the form of cool baths and cool compresses, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Chronic Care
For those individuals who develop chronic pain (a condition known as postherpetic neuralgia) as a result of shingles, a number of additional treatments may be recommended. These include TENS (transcutaneous electric nerve stimulation) and biofeedback, according to the American Association of Family Physicians (AAFP). TENS uses electrodes to relieve pain, while biofeedback is a closely guided technique in which patients are taught to control their symptoms without the use of medication. Biofeedback should only be done in a controlled setting and guided by an experienced technician.
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